Neuropathy

Neuropathy, short for Peripheral Neuropathy, is nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system, meaning nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are involved. Neuropathy is usually a complication found in a number of medical conditions. Neuropathy can be caused by repetitive injuries, infections, metabolic problems, or physical trauma. Many people with cancer, diabetes, HIV-AIDS, liver disease, Lyme Disease, etc. experience symptoms of neuropathy. Neuropathy can bring on burning sharp pain, numbness, muscle weakness and lack of coordination. As anyone who has lived with Neuropathy knows, these conditions and symptoms can make day-to-day activities virtually impossible.

Peripheral neuropathy occurs when there is damage to the peripheral nerves, the nerves that carry messages to and from the spinal cord and brain from the rest of the body. When peripheral neuropathy is caused by diabetes mellitus (a common cause), it is called diabetic neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy can also be caused by other metabolic disorders, herpes zoster, HIV, nutritional deficiencies, toxins, immune disorders, genetic disorders, or cancer (directly or indirectly as a side effect of chemotherapy or radiation). Whatever the cause, peripheral neuropathy can be a debilitating condition that can affect every aspect of an individual's life.

Neuropathy associated with diabetes mellitus can affect all peripheral nerves. Diabetic neuropathy symptoms might include numbness and tingling of extremities, loss of sensation, muscle weakness, burning or electric pain sensations, and a variety of other symptoms that can affect nearly every body system.

Neuropathy claims are typically evaluated under Listing 11.14 Peripheral Neuropathies. Disability under this section requires disorganization of motor function, significant and persistent disorganization of motor function in two extremities, resulting in sustained disturbance of gross and dexterous movements, or gait and station, in spite of prescribed treatment. If the adjudicator reviews your medical records and determines you meet a medical listing, you are found to be Disabled at Step 3 and you are eligible to receive disability benefits.

It is very important if you have Neuropathy to get an EMG test performed. This nerve test can help your case.

If you need help applying for Social Security Disability or SSI, please contact me at joshben99@gmail.com. I have over 20 years experience with Social Security Disability cases.

Location: Michigan, USA

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